Fast 3D Microscopy Imaging of Contacts Between Surfaces Using a Fluorescent Liquid.

A novel method is presented for the rapid 3D visualization of the contact between two surfaces by means of fluores-cence microscopy using a fluorescent liquid. Distances be-tween the surfaces of up to several hundred nanometers can be determined with sub-nanometer accuracy in 3D and with-in seconds of measurement time. The method opens new possibilities for research in the areas of contact mechanics, friction, wear and lubrication.